Shorten CFMEU links hurt ALP

There are concerns that Opposition Leader Bill Shorten’s efforts to boost his number within the Labor party through deals with the Construction, Forestry, Mining & Energy Union have the potential to harm its prospects at the next federal election. His leadership is said to be safe at the moment, but there are a number of potential candidates in the wings should dissatisfaction with his ties to the CFMEU grow, including Chris Bowen, Tony Burke and Tanya Plibersek.